02
May
Why See A Periodontist For Gum Disease Instead Of Making A Trip To Your Regular Dentist?
Periodontists like Drs. Tae Kwon and Rahul Tase at Monadnock Perio & Implant Center in Keene & Peterborough, New Hampshire, are dental specialists who focus on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal disease, which affects the supporting structures of the teeth, including the gums and bone. Periodontists are specialized dental professionals who are best equipped to provide treatment for periodontal disease. They typically undergo three additional years of education in periodontology beyond dental school. This specialization equips them to handle complex cases of gum disease and perform advanced procedures such as gum grafting, bone regeneration, and dental implant placement.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease, is a widespread oral health condition caused by plaque buildup and tartar on the teeth. If left untreated, gum disease can cause tooth loss, gum recession, and systemic health problems like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. While general dentists are trained to recognize and treat mild cases of gum disease, periodontists are uniquely qualified to manage advanced stages of the condition.
Why Choose A Periodontist Over A Dentist?
There are several reasons why individuals should consider seeing a periodontist for periodontal therapy instead of relying solely on a general dentist:
- Specialized Training: Periodontists undergo rigorous training explicitly focused on diagnosing and treating periodontal disease. They are experts in identifying the various forms of gum disease, assessing their severity, and developing tailored treatment plans to address each patient’s unique needs.Â
- Advanced Treatment Options: Periodontists are skilled in performing advanced procedures to treat gum disease and restore oral health. These may include scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), gum surgery, bone grafting, and guided tissue regeneration. Their expertise enables them to tackle complex cases effectively, often achieving better outcomes than traditional treatments.
- Management of Complex Cases: Periodontists have the knowledge and experience to manage complex cases of periodontal disease, including those involving severe bone loss, gum recession, or systemic health concerns. They can work in collaboration with other dental specialists, such as prosthodontists and oral surgeons, to develop comprehensive treatment plans that address both the dental and medical aspects of the condition.
- Focus on Long-Term Oral Health: Periodontists prioritize long-term oral health outcomes for their patients. Beyond treating the symptoms of gum disease, they emphasize preventive measures and ongoing maintenance to prevent recurrence and preserve the health of the teeth and supporting structures. This approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive care tailored to their individual needs.
- Dental Implant Expertise: Dental implants are a standard treatment option for replacing missing teeth in patients with advanced periodontal disease. Periodontists are highly skilled in implant placement procedures, including bone grafting and soft tissue management, to ensure optimal outcomes for patients seeking tooth replacement options.
Schedule An Appointment Today!
While general dentists play a vital role in maintaining oral health and treating mild cases of gum disease, individuals with more advanced or complex periodontal issues can benefit greatly from the expertise of a periodontist like Drs. Kwon or Tase at Monadnock Perio & Implant Center in Keene & Peterborough, New Hampshire. By seeking care from a specialist trained in periodontology, patients can receive advanced treatment options, personalized care, and a focus on long-term oral health that may not be available through a general dental practice. To schedule an appointment with our doctors, please call (603) 215-5800.